In Which Calligraphy Writing Utensil is Best for You?: Part I, we talked about using regular pens and brush pens to create calligraphy. Both of those writing utensils provide a non-intimidating, fun entry into the world of lettering! Once you’ve practiced with regular pens and/or brush pens for a few days, though, you will probably want something a little more advanced. Enter dip pen calligraphy! In this post, we are going to discuss straight pens and oblique pens: how you know you’re ready to try them, which ones to purchase, and tips for using them.Continue reading…

In this two-part series, we’re going to explore which calligraphy writing utensil is most compatible with you at this point. Based on the information you read here, you may decide to try one of the recommended writing utensils; or, you may find out that there are a couple of different kinds that you’ll love! Today’s post will examine regular pens (e.g. ballpoint, gel) and brush pens. Next week, we’ll talk about straight dip pens and oblique dip pens!Continue reading…

In Part I of the Black Calligraphy Inks Comparison series, you were introduced to Ziller, Sumi, and Higgins inks. Today, we’re going to examine three more inks to conclude the comparison: Dr. Ph. Martin’s Bombay India Ink, Speedball India Ink, and Winsor & Newton Black Calligraphy Ink. All of these inks are excellent choices if you wish to create black calligraphy; however, it’s a good idea to get to know them a little bit better before you make a buying decision.Continue reading…

In previous posts we’ve discussed earthy calligraphy inks, sparkly calligraphy inks, and white calligraphy inks. It’s only appropriate, then, that in today’s article we take a look at three well-known black calligraphy inks! You’ve probably heard of at least one of these inks … and if you haven’t, you may just find a new favorite. I’d recommend waiting to buy any new black inks, though, until after this black ink post series concludes on Friday! That way, you’ll have all the information you need to make a smart buying decision. In the meantime, let’s kick off this ink examination by taking a look at Higgins!Continue reading…

We all have different living situations and different tendencies when it comes to keeping things organized, so naturally there are going to be variations from artist to artist as far as how he or she stores calligraphy supplies. In this blog post, I’m going to show you how I keep my supplies stored and organized! My hope is that you can A) be assured that your current storage situation is correct; and/or B) get some new ideas for storage solutions for your own calligraphy supplies.Continue reading…

In the Calligraphy Swirls Tutorials (Part I) post, you learned how to make two different calligraphy swirls. Today, it’s time to expand your repertoire with two more swirl techniques! First, I’m going to start you off with a very simple and versatile flourish: the “Scroll Swirl”. Then, we’ll move on to a more complicated swirl called the “Arabian Nights”. I encourage you to try creating both of them at some point; they both offer a great way to add personality and pizazz to your pieces!Continue reading…

All pointed pen creations are beautiful, but add calligraphy swirls to the mix, and your work becomes extraordinary! Paired with casual modern calligraphy, swirls are fun and ironic; and when they appear with more formal calligraphy, they immediately add a regal/important vibe. Part of the reason people love them so much is they look intricate and complicated. After reading the two parts of this series, though, you’ll know the truth: while swirls look amazing, they’re far from impossible to make if you break it down! Today, you’ll learn two techniques for creating swirls, and next week, you’ll learn two more.Continue reading…

I’ve been creating calligraphy for a few years now, and occasionally I get restless with the same-old, same-old. I know that I can’t be the only one who feels like this, so in today’s blog post, I thought I’d go over five ways that I keep my calligraphy creation process fresh. It is my hope that these tips help to keep you motivated, and spark your creativity a bit in the process!Continue reading…

If you’re learning calligraphy, chances are you’re eventually going to use your skills on an envelope address. And why not? Envelopes showcase calligraphy in a gorgeous way! However, you might hit a snag with calligraphy spacing; it can be difficult to make sure your lines are consistently stacked and centered. It’s a common problem, which is why I’m addressing it (no pun intended) in this blog post. Today, you’ll learn how to calligraph envelopes traditionally, as well pick up as some creative shortcuts you can take to cut your spacing time in half!Continue reading…

Since my last few posts have been more art-focused, I thought we could switch things up with a calligraphy post. And what better calligraphy-centric thing to focus on than writing slant? If you’re new to calligraphy, this element of learning is probably tripping you up a bit; and you shouldn’t feel bad because that’s completely normal! With the help of these five tips, you’ll be able to steer your slant in a consistent and beautiful direction (both literally and figuratively).Continue reading…